Leaving her abusive partner was the most difficult decision she ever had to make. What would she do next? Was she in more danger? Could she provide for her children? This is Vicky’s* story. (*name has been changed to protect her identity)

After many years of living with an abusive husband and after many
attempts to leave him, I finally packed up my five year old daughter
and three year old son and entered the doors of Halton Women’s Place.

Over the next seven weeks I learned how great it felt to feel safe
and cared for. I saw a difference in my children as they began to play
without fear. And when it came time for us to start our new life free
of violence. I was excited, hopeful and scared.

What many don’t realize is that when a woman leaves her
abusive home she is faced with many obstacles including lower
income, different living situations, custody issues and the loss of
family traditions.

Within two months of our departure from Halton Women’s Place, I began
to struggle financially. And then the holiday season came.

I didn’t realize how difficult this season would be. Our family
traditions were forever changed. We all know it’s an expensive
season, but I knew it would be exceptionally expensive for me this
year. I wanted it to be as magical as ever I told my transitional
support worker.

A week later, I was presented with a $100 grocery gift card
and a $75 gift card to a department store. Donors provide these gift cards to the shelter to help women as
they start their new life. I cried. A wonderful but
complete stranger was looking out for me – for my children. I am
forever grateful for that one act of kindness. That act gave me the
courage to not give up on this journey.

Halton Women’s Place continues to work with clients who have
just left the shelter and are working with a transitional support
worker. We are hoping to raise $10,000 in gift cards, so we
can support 100 women and their families this season.Please consider giving $5, $10, $20, $50 or more to Halton
Women's Place.

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